2021 PIVOT TRAIL 429 Pro XT/XTR Enduro 29" // Bike Review

[@AppleJack76]

The descent commentary's are the best in the industry.

[@lifebehindbarsmtb]

I’ve watched every one of the bike reviews and Spencer has not had as much fun on any other bike as he did with this. Hence I purchased one and I concur on the fun factor.

[@Hardcaslte]

That title threw me for a loop for as second. Picot Trail bike, Enduro 29" Top notch reviews though, your ability to ride 78mph down a trail while casually talking about the bike is insane and the video quality is top.

[@WoodsRydah]

Here’s the problem: this rider is able to ride with such speed finesse and ease while showering non-stop praise to the bike’s capability that I can’t help but think every bike he rides is the best bike available. All his whoops hollers and praise! Yet I still watch his beautiful riding amazed and a little jealous. After each video I tell myself “now THAT is the bike for me” until I see his next one. He convinces me that every trail bike he rides is a great descender and every enduro rig is a playful climbers dream. After all look how he rides them!!! I know better but I’m still sucked tight in. Surely he can have some compassion for my wallet and complain about a few details of each bike.

[@johnsospencer]

These modern bikes are really good. When I get into the zone on a ride it's hard not to enjoy these bikes! Hopefully, my words give you a better idea of how the frame geometry and suspension kinematics feel when you're out on the trail. The hope is that our video reviews give people the best idea of how the bike feels in the heat of the moment. Cheers!

[@JAFO.]

@@johnsospencer I came here to the comments section to write basically that same thing. There's no negatives. When a new Amateur radio comes out I like to read all the one and two star reviews first to see what the negatives are and if I could live with it. If you said 'this bike doesn't jump well or like fast downhill but sure is an awesome climber and spectacular in the technical and playful to the max, *I'd buy that one* because I don't go fast downhill nor jump at all but love a snappy handling bike. All your reviews are great and *_you're now my favorite reviewer_* because I'm in the saddle riding when I watch your videos and you ride like the wind! I love it, but when it comes time to get a new bike, I'm not going to use your reviews, I'll choose more like MTB Yumyum's because he also includes some negatives or at least areas where this bike or that bike doesn't feel as right doing this or that. Now I'm not saying you should change your style for me, it's your style and I'm fine with that, b ut if you're intentionally leaving out certain relevant negatives or even 'heads-up' then maybe you shouldn't, maybe you should include a little off that too..? Kind of like a woman - wow she's gorgeous and what a smile - so I marry her only to find out that lasts for only 2 days/month and the rest of the time is a total B!7@# 😥 I gotta know the "Not-so-good-at...s" too.

[@ElderberryThee3rd]

@@johnsospencer Your commentary is the best I’ve found and you do an excellent job at explaining how the bike feels. But I would definitely like to hear more talk about how each bike feels depending on who would be looking at it. Negatives and constructive criticism definitely helps for the reviews. With how good bikes have gotten some long travel bikes are more manageable than ever and to know how blank bike compares to blank bike with less or more travel would help a lot.

[@livinginorangevilleontario4246]

I could be wrong but it sounds like you have analysis paralysis JUST LIKE ME! lol. I feel like at that price range you can’t go wrong with a bike. They’re expensive for a reason. I had the chance to demo a Mach 5.5 and switchblade last season while they are different bikes they both rode incredible. Coming from a shitty, beat up old Kona kadabra the difference is insane. Some people think cheap bikes will do the trick and while this is true, a beginner rider can tell how much better an expensive bike is and would opt for that option if the money was there.

[@JAFO.]

@@livinginorangevilleontario4246 Curious what you felt different between the SB and the 5.5 and which you preferred

[@REBooner30]

Geezus I wish I could ride with 1/2 this pace. F’in outstanding! I traded a V4 Ripley for the standard T429 Pro XT/XTR build and never looked back. This bike is so stiff and quick and snappy it transformed my riding. It destroys the Ripley on descents and is the equal on ascents, perhaps even better in really technical stuff. It really is an amazing machine that rewards riders of all levels. People complain about the price but the x-factor offered by this bike makes it worth every penny in my book.

[@gabeah]

How much more expensive is it the knee equivalent yeti or Ibis? Also any major differences in weight? I was looking at the SB 115/130 as well as the Ripley

[@milktop1]

Best bike reviews by far!!

[@OKNOWIMMAD12345678]

For real, I watch these just for eye candy footage and solid riding. Not in the market for a bike at all.

[@SmileyBoy84]

True

[@tonykasunic1]

This

[@desmondcannon2952]

I like them too.

[@antlockyer153]

Watching you ride this makes me want one, I can't imagine needing anymore travel than this.

[@prr665]

Great riding! The real beauty of this bike is that it's 27.5+ compatible. Buy an additional 27.5+ wheelset with 40mm internal width. Now you have 3 different bikes: 1. A 29er 2. A 27.5+ bike 3. A mullet bike (29er in front and 27.5+ in back). My advice, buy the ENVE M640 wheelset. Now, you have 3 different bikes for the price of a second wheelset. It's really a shame the bike media declared Plus tires dead and discouraged a majority of people from using them. They're fun AF!!

[@mathewmccabe2658]

Valid! Totally agree

[@roddas26]

Rode this bike for the first time last night. And feel exactly the same way. Been riding a Kenevo SL for the last year. And this Pivot was an eye opener. I'm hooked.

[@persistentconsistency]

I'm late to this party, but so happy to see my favorite MTB reviewer enjoying the rig! Okay, I'll finish watching now lol

[@saksittichompoo3583]

7:37 I watch this shot a few times and I got this chilled in my spine!

[@JAFO.]

This is the one that gets me! 6:38

[@shamrock4840]

Dude that ride was insane and you never stopped talking.

[@lonnietkach3305]

Great review! Love listening to your commentaries on these rides! Your enthusiasm amps me up and gets me motivated to take my riding to the next level. I was hoping to see a review on the enduro version of this new Pivot Trail 429, and I'm glad I got to see your review!

[@sk8kidCass]

Best review of the Trail 429 by far! Would like to see a review of the Yeti SB120 ridden on the same trail and a comparison of the two bikes.

[@rynolindz]

Such a rad review and bike. Holy snikies bro can ride..

[@stevenleung9589]

I have a 429 too but seeing you do a live on air review at Mach Chicken inspires me to go ride harder and faster!

[@flyingnorseman]

I clocked at least 5 "wooo hahaha wooo ha hooo hooo"s". I must ride one.

[@dandizzle4444]

Absolutely love these reviews, keep em coming!

[@TNW84]

Excellent riding. I’d like to know how you set the bike up. Sag front and rear and suspension settings. I wish more reviewers listed that info.

[@PabloMollAN]

I love your reviews. Awesome riding and great trails. Thank for the content.

[@Jfree68]

You’re the best in the review biz. Thanks

[@theGiver3]

I could never afford this bike but it's still fun to see this reviewer mash it out on this overpriced beauty

[@livinginorangevilleontario4246]

Never say never!

[@kh05821]

its not "overpriced"

[@leefastenau9890]

@@kh05821 your right. Extremely over priced.

[@REBooner30]

As with many things in life price is relative.

[@gabeah]

If they can’t keep them in stock, they aren’t overpriced. Make sense?

[@martybee6648]

Trust me on this order the magazine. It’s a great read the photography is phenomenal it looks great on the coffee table.

[@freehubmag]

🙏Thank you!

[@diydogguy]

Pivot trail 429 vs Stumpjumper. All around which would you pick?

[@powderfinger2029]

I had V2 429 Got a sb140 now getting V3 429. DW link is the real deal, nothing else compares . I always felt that the Yeti platform took a lot of work.

[@montechie]

Great review! That camera angle through the trees is actually thrilling to watch. You mention how lightweight it felt, any chance you know the actual weight? I'm guessing the 36 and DPX2 adds ~1lbs over the non-enduro package. Weight's not everything, but it's hard to validate 30+ lbs and $7k for some of these shorties (looking at you Santa Cruz).

[@garybrown9719]

Best bike video I've seen My xl 429 is old with tall bottom bracket 245 reach im 6'5" i could ride a L with 270mm

[@craigsteele8178]

WOW!!...Dude that bike is f...king Fast!! I’ve never seen you rip that fast before on a bike. Amazing riding bro! And to narrate while your hauling ass!?...Dam!! Does anyone know what trail this is? It looks unreal!

[@prr665]

SST Trail on Mt. Galbraith in Bellingham, Washington State.

[@amatureAdamsedits]

How’s your thoughts comparing to the Norco optic? Similar travel number less cost for Norco? Cheers great review.

[@mikeh9949]

Great review, I’m so torn between this and the Switchblade...

[@williamkinzel3635]

Rad looking machine! Perfect bike for trail riding

[@JAFO.]

So, I'd really like you to review a similarly built up Ibis Ripley to see if the E429 is really the ultimate Galbraith machine, and I'll bet there's a lot of viewers wondering that same thing.

[@caseywalker5015]

Oh yeah and I just finished watching his Ibis Mojo-4 review. - That thing flew!

[@RU2AIM]

Well I thought I was sold on the Mojo4 until I watched this video review and began wondering just how much snappier & more playful this Trail429 would be as a *_Trail427.5_* Now that might be a good battle of the super snappy, ultra handling 27s...

[@jaceizzon7095]

I was just thinking that, since the 429 and switchblade are both designed for 29" or 27.5"

[@stevensms772]

Great video, I wish I could ride like this. In your experience, how does the enduro build 429 compare to the latest Pivot Switchblade?

[@jamesandlizzie2]

love this vid- the way bike review videos should be- better than a bunch of dudes drinking beer and talking about how the bike rides-

[@rynolindz]

What’s your take on the t429 enduro vs the switchblade? Plushness and trail chatter.. any advise much appreciated!!

[@jamesobrien4657]

Bump as I would love to know this as well

[@fcbotieno]

Bump

[@brucehumphries6889]

Same here, I just sold my 2018 Switchblade and I’m either getting the T429 or the new Swithblade. I live in SC and make trips to Pisgah area often. The Enduro build has my attention.

[@a8f235]

I got a Switchblade myself and it is too much bike for most of what I use it for. Supply chain issues, little to no bikes to testride before purchase, and now I have this Switchblade that I wish was something more like that 429. Because of how much you loose by selling a used bike, I will keep the Switchblade and just never sell it at all. I'll figure out a way of maybe getting hold of a used less travel bike with a more poppy feel like that 429. I feel that a more modern geometry will help so much for bikes like this with less travel, as well as the 29" wheels. I'm sure an old 26" with 120mm suspension will feel pretty much outplayed.

[@jroase1658]

Nice review ! I can’t ride nearly that good but wanted to see what the bike is capable of .

[@dustinbjohnson]

Thoughts on this bike vs the Following V3? They seem similar

[@CDM-no5jk]

Was thinking the same thing

[@WoodsRydah]

Following this

[@edylan]

Any word?

[@davelogan77]

Every single thing that is spoken in this review is 100% true. This bike really is that good, no joke. I didn't think I could like a bike this much... Now I understand why Pivots are so expensive, and why they have a cult following.

[@brucehumphries6889]

David, I’ve drank the Kool-Aid

[@davelogan77]

@@brucehumphries6889 Isn't it delicious?

[@brucehumphries6889]

@@davelogan77 It is until you have to buy more…then you can’t get it.

[@jasonluker6690]

Dang that dude can ride!

[@redball4093]

Good ride review. Thanks.

[@jasonlorance1918]

But did you like it?? 😂😂😂 Great video dude! Really want one!

[@garzzagear4719]

How would this compare to the switchblade climbing and descending? Seems like the build and geometry are very similar on this enduro build. If going this route would it make sense to get the extra travel of the switchblade?

[@chrisgravel7157]

Looks like THE bike for something like BC Bike Race. Might prefer the Switchblade for daily PNW riding but this looks like a rocket sled for those who like to climb as much as descend

[@samgriffmedia]

how does this compare to the evil following?

[@DnBQemist]

Love these reviews. Where does this rank amongst the short travel bikes? Better than the Following v3?

[@battlegoatracing]

I'm debating between a SwitchBlade and a Trail 429 Enduro. Your commentary about the Switchblade's ability to do just about everything was huge a factor in my focusing on it, but I wonder if its too much bike. How would you compare the performance envelope of the two? Thanks for this and for these great review vids!

[@lutumrisus7616]

Don't discount Ibis Mojo4 ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/hojYfqxoast7i7M ) - it's kind of 1/2 way between and in some ways better, if you like that quick turning snappiness of a 27.5'' wheel, as do I. - My question is: ''How would the Switchblade handle, and handle gnarr, with 27.5" wheels - as it was designed to also utilize?''

[@jorgebremer1227]

I love this channel and the way you review the bikes, whenever ur testing a bike when climbing, do you always have the shock in open mode?, for example if you say "its a rocketship up the climbs" do you test the bikes in full open?, I have a 2021 stumpy expert and know its fast both locked out and in open mode just like you reviewed but I’m just curious as to what mode do you use your shock during the tests. Thanks

[@talluel6792]

How about a comparison test of this bike & the Transition Spur

[@marcwarren683]

You could practically swap the audio with the Following V3 review and no one would know. Lol. How do they compare???

[@johnsospencer]

I think the Trail 429 build we received with the 140mm fork is a more versatile build and opens up more trail options. However, they both have similar chainstay lengths, reach values, and progressivity in the rear shock - so they are quite similar in my experience. The Evil single-pivot swing arm leads to a more chunky feel. Both bikes are a riot - I love these smaller bikes.

[@REB4444]

I have the 2022 Trail 429 non-enduro and love it. How much does the extra weight ( I know it's not significant), the slackness the upgraded fork affect the climbing? Because of the conservative seat tub angle that makes this bike a pleasure to pedal because of it being so neutral, if you increase the fork slackness, won't the front-end tend to wander more in the super steep climbs? These changes must affect the climbing somewhat so am just curious how this compares to the regular 429, is the downhill capability outweigh the benefits?

[@iskato914six]

you're my favourite bike review. I've never ridden a trail or enduro bike before. got a nice XC ride that's served me well though. am tempted to get a second cycle. if you could have one bike that 'does it all', what would you recommend? Thanks :)

[@troycarpenter3675]

130mm 29er.

[@evodee3026]

What’s the difference between this and the 2020 model? I’m looking at one that’s like this but I guess it’s the 2020 model and called a V2? I really can’t find the exact model online that I’m looking for anywhere

[@joseeduardoandrade476]

Spectacular 👌

[@JavierGonzaleziii]

Thoughts on the standard 429 vs enduro? I have a full on enduro bike YT Capra Pro Race for the rough, so I thought the standard would be plenty...the only concern I really have is the grip 2 vs the fit 4...any recommendation? Sick review!

[@troycarpenter3675]

What are your concerns? I'm looking at both forks now.

[@mtskibum16]

​ @Spencer Johnson maybe covered in other videos, but it would be nice to see some talk about sizing. You mentioned being on a large but never your size and how the fit is.

[@brucehumphries6889]

Was scrolling thru to see if he ever does mention his height. Would be a good measure.

[@don6801]

There is a NEW in box large on Pink Bike! The only one I have found anywhere

[@davelogan77]

I just bought this bike. Wish me luck.

[@freehubmag]

Happy NBD! Enjoy the ride

[@vultussursum165]

How's that working out for you? What type of trails?

[@alexanderrebielak9974]

Duder! How much more of an improved climber is the trail 429 to the supposed excellent climber of V2 2019 Mach 6 that was reigned Enduro King by many in the Quiver Killer category? Every year there is a new quiver killer that climbs and enduros. I actually love to climb and with all the travel on my Mach 6 maybe time to take advantage of COVID resale gold. Thanks for any comparisons to note to the two bikes. I'm even tempted to just keep Mach 6 as bike park and lowest trail build package on new V3 Trail 429.

[@alexanderrebielak8901]

Bump

[@carlosoliva5811]

Really enjoyed your review. I own the original 2018 model of the 429 trail. I bought it a couple of months before the trail 429 was introduced. I wanted the Switchblade but bought the 429. I just watched your switchblade review again. I live in N Ga. ht/weight 5'11, 207. I am going to test drive the Switchblade on April 6 but wanted to ask you which one did you like the best? Both bikes seem to be swiss army knives. Great job

[@fredmagnin860]

Hi Carlos, do you have a feedback of your test ? which size did you ride ?

[@carlosoliva5811]

I rode the Large Switchblade. When Pivot starts sending inventory to bike shops again, I will buy the Trail 429 again.. My first go , I bought the 429 while favoring the Switchblade. This time I knew I was going to purchase it but after riding the new Switchblade and watching your review along with MTB yum yum, on the Trail 429, I will buy the 429 again. Yum Yum seems to think the 429 is stiffer and maybe made for a heavier rider more so than the Ripley. Still don’t know whether to add the 36 over the stock 34. The Fox 36 gives it close to the previous Switchblade. Thanks for your review.

[@gabrielmarias972]

Hi looks have decent capability for some enduro trails...i doubt... Maybe to often use all the suspensions travel? Or with this shock, volume spacer and DW platform its enough? Also maybe too light to be have aplomb on the air in jumps? Cheers

[@harryingd2674]

How does this compare to the switchblade

[@paull6678]

How does this compare to the norco optic?

[@stevenbarajas563]

Do the new ibis ripmo! I just got it but would love to hear you talk about it lol

[@vultussursum165]

After watching this video several times I think Pivot should've called it the ''Hang Time''.

[@bikedude019]

Just a smaller SwitchBlade adapted platform with less travel. I prefer the Forbidden Druid.

[@rondre3000]

So many superlatives thrown at this bike, but the people gotta know...Pivot 429 Trail vs Evil Following V3. Who comes out alive???!

[@johnsospencer]

That’s a tough one! I think the pivots larger fork makes it more versatile for more trails. But both bikes pop and turn so good.

[@jltrack]

Evil has lifetime warranties Pivot is 10 years. You got to test both though when you’re making that kind of investment. Distance from dealer is also important if you need a warranty or parts.

[@milktop1]

Geo much better on pivot in my opinion

[@2380knight]

Saw this on an ad Mesmerizing

[@MountainBikingTrips]

Trail looks really awesome

[@mannyfnsc29]

Spencer, how does the new Stumpjumper (non-evo) with those flexstays compare to the 429 ?

[@johnsospencer]

Hey Manny, the Stumpjumper was a softer feeling bike that feels a bit more ground-hugging. The stumpy felt a bit more planted on really steep climbs. The pivot would definitely be my pick if I was after pop and maneuverability - and also perceived speed while pedaling.

[@mannyfnsc29]

@@johnsospencer Awesome. Thanks for the reply 👍

[@TheGreaterU]

@@johnsospencer that's helpful for sure. What about vs the YT izzo?

[@mitchelllawver6097]

Did you ride it in both geo positions? Wondering if having the bike in the higher position with the 140mm fork raises the BB too high?

[@eatnpooter1634]

When you doing the 21’ SC Hightower?

[@alex1231235]

You're a Space Mountain rider!

[@Stickybutton]

What’s your weight and how much PSI you got in your fork and shock please?

[@ethanpantoja616]

Can you please do the 2021 Giant Reign Advanced Pro 29 1. Please

[@themightygoose1]

You had a swarm of bees following you!

[@seanlichter435]

Which bike is more fun, Trail 429, or Ibis Mojo 4? Which is a better climber?

[@dt9019]

Ridiculous skills

[@stevemurray2737]

Oops Just Bought one yesterday! Blue!

[@everywherelocal]

yeah! 🤘

[@brucehumphries6889]

What stem length was on the one you tested?

[@JohnSmith-on7zr]

Are the tires already inflated?

[@TheHunoutdomseyha]

Giant reign advanced pro 29 2021 next pls

[@furion..]

So Spencer, this or the Mojo4? I'm heading out in September for NZ, Australia & of course the huge mainland of Tasmania. Which should I take?

[@JAFO.]

Wow, isn't THAT the ultimate question - lol I'd like to read what his response would be but I don't really think anyone can tell you what feels right TO YOU, but I do understand your question, and in that I believe you're asking which would be better for ''riding the world'', so yeah that is a good question, but even if you choose the wrong one you're choosing the right one because they both seem to be totally awesome.

[@RomanLegion300]

How do you think this compares to the Norco optic?

[@eatnpooter1634]

Damn almost looks like ffwd when you descend 💨🤯🕺💯😎

[@tschick2680]

i would love to run this along with my firebird

[@Coors1974]

Have you done a switchblade review?

[@freehubmag]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m4OTqqtslJljn5I

[@troycarpenter3675]

Do you happen to know the verified weight?

[@livinginorangevilleontario4246]

Did you change the headset? The stem looks a lot shorter than what comes on that build

[@freehubmag]

Spencer did not change the stem. The bike was tested as sent from Pivot

[@AceGoodheart]

I'm really sold on this bike. How available are they? Are they on backorder? Do you order straight from the company or do you have to go through a dealer? Does the dealer charge extra?

[@wrighttown]

Ace, I just picked mine up from Salt Cycles in Sandy, UT. They have awesome inventory.

[@ericlessard9896]

What is the weight of this bike?

[@samgriffmedia]

please do the switchblade!

[@freehubmag]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m4OTqqtslJljn5I

[@Lin-Jason]

I want to see the trial ride of PORPAIN bike~

[@MDD1966]

How much is this bike?

[@Mot-Reuab]

Isn’t this bike like 30lbs? Doesn’t sound light to me.

[@e2dub]

Your not wrong. But the DW link in combination with the short WB and short CS make it feel responsive and maneuverable. Those qualities are probably what make it feel lighter than it actually is.

[@SpencerBaum]

What is that name? It's like pivot threw every letter and number from parts of the bike into the name and just threw in a couple words as well to top it all off.

[@freehubmag]

Trail 429 is the actual bike name, the spec on the bike we got is "Pro XT/XTR Enduro 29". Seems like a lot when combined....

[@JAFO.]

@@freehubmag I'd love to see Spencer ride both the Revel Rail 27.5" and the Pivot 5.5 27.5" so I could have a better idea of which one between the three (incl the Ibis Mojo-4) would shine most brightly.

[@shaaylaloxton]

How tall are you and what size bike p

[@freehubmag]

Spencer is 5'11" riding a size Large bike

[@the1marat32]

@@freehubmag I’m 5”11 and 150 lb, would you recommend Large or Medium?

[@barrakingbeatz7794]

This or the yt izzo?

[@theGiver3]

Depends. Can you still buy food after getting this? If not I'd say the Izzo, probably pretty similar.

[@shaun1900]

This, izzo is ok, had one and sold it, this is another league, like the Ripley.